1. Hand Sanitizer vs. Soap:
- Effectiveness: Hand sanitizers, particularly those containing at least 60% alcohol, can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands in many situations. However, they are not effective against all types of germs, including norovirus and certain parasites.
- Soap and Water: Washing hands with soap and water is more effective than hand sanitizer at removing certain kinds of germs, dirt, and chemicals. Soap and water are recommended especially when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.
2. Types of Hand Sanitizers:
- Alcohol-based: These contain 60-95% alcohol and are the most effective at killing germs.
- Non-alcohol-based: These typically contain disinfectants like benzalkonium chloride, which are less effective than alcohol-based sanitizers at killing germs.
3. Proper Application of Hand Sanitizer:
- Right Way: Apply the product to the palm of one hand (read the label to learn the correct amount). Rub your hands together, covering all surfaces of your hands and fingers, until they are dry. This should take around 20 seconds.
- Wrong Way: Using too little product or wiping it off before it dries can reduce its effectiveness.
4. Safety and Dangers of Hand Sanitizer:
- Ingestion: Hand sanitizer is dangerous if ingested, especially for children. Alcohol poisoning can occur.
- Flammability: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are flammable and should be kept away from fire or flame.
- Skin Issues: Overuse can cause skin irritation or dryness. Some people may also have allergic reactions to certain ingredients in hand sanitizers.
5. Homemade Hand Sanitizer:
- Effectiveness: Homemade sanitizers can be effective if made correctly. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides a recipe for making hand sanitizer with the correct proportions of alcohol, glycerol, and hydrogen peroxide. However, improper proportions can render the sanitizer ineffective.
- Risks: Making hand sanitizer at home without proper knowledge and ingredients can result in ineffective or harmful products. It’s important to follow reputable sources for recipes and instructions.
– Tuổi Hạc –